Lakeview bar patron had fake cash on New Year's Day: Police

A Wisconsin man was arrested at a Lakeview bar on New Year's Day after police found him in possession of counterfeit money, drugs and a firearm, authorities said.

Troy Waite, 25, of Sun Prairie, Wisc., was charged with possession of a firearm, two unlawful use of a weapon offenses, and several drug offenses after police officers were called to Will's Northwoods Inn at 3030 N. Racine Ave. after an employee saw a group of patrons trying to purchase items at the bar with counterfeit money.

Waite was one of four people using the fake money, according to the police report, but when police approached Waite he openly stated that he had "weed" in his pants pocket. Police found five plastic bags containing marijuana, and one bag suspected to contain cocaine. They also found a handgun loaded with ten live rounds and one round in the chamber, the police report said. According to county prosecutors, Waite told the police officers that he brought the drugs with him to party, because it was New Year's, and that he brought the gun for protection.

Law enforcement officials later searched Waite's car and found a shotgun, an assault rifle, and 43 grams of cannabis in a water bottle, the report said. Waite was previously convicted for armed robbery in Wisconsin, according to prosecutors.

Waite was brought to the Cook County Criminal Courthouse on Friday afternoon and ordered held on a $150,000 bond.